CHAPTER TWO: Shadows of desire

Nikita meticulously arranged the books on her shelves, a Wednesday afternoon day off ritual that brought a sense of order to her cozy haven. As she delicately placed each novel in its designated spot, a particular book, titled "She Marinates," slipped from her hands and landed on the polished wooden floor with a soft thud. The sound echoed in the room, breaking the quiet hum of the lazy afternoon. She bent down to retrieve the fallen book, her fingers tracing the embossed letters on its cover. A subtle smile curved her lips as the tactile connection with the novel triggered a flood of memories. The world around her blurred as the present moment dissolved, giving away to the vivid scenes of las December. In that suspended moment, she allowed her mind to travel back, embracing the enchanting embrace of nostalgia. The room faded, replaced by the sights and sounds of different time, and as the pages of her memory turned, a new chapter began to unfold.

The bay window framed the coveted jewel of the cost, the illustrious Indian Ocean. Its morning serenity, a canvas of undisturbed blue waters, whispered promises of tranquility. The symphony of chirping birds heralded the arrival of a potentially auspicious day, a prelude to the rituals of anticipation. A cup of caramel coffee, bathed in the soft glint of morning sunlight, exhaled wisps of warmth, perched at the window's sedge. A novel, "She Marinates," lay open on a curved wooden table, glasses resting upon its pages, accompanied by the gentle aroma of lavender from a burning candle that enshrouded the room. Draped in a ripe yellow dera, she paced restlessly, the only distraction from her racing thoughts being the incessant checking of her phone. Abruptly, a knock at the door disrupted the room's stillness, drawing her to answer.

"Room service delivery for you, madam…"

"Oh, it's you! Just place it on the table, please."

The tray's content spilled onto the table, a plate of samosas and an unexpected offering: a bouquet of flowers and a note, a birthday wish beckoning for a dinner rendezvous at eight in the evening. Grateful yet aflutter, she leaped onto the bed, gazing at the vibrant Swahili designs adorning the ceiling, lost in contemplation.

Beside the sprawling glass window, framing the picturesque vista of Mombasa city, a man exuded palpable unease. Time seemed an adversary to him, each glance at his watch etching the mounting tension on his furrowed brow. The sky-blue face towel, an emblem of solace in the afternoon's heat, now served to daub away the nervous sweat as evening's tranquility gradually descended. His restless vigil shifted abruptly as a figure at the entrance captivated his attention. Her presence altered the room's dynamic, drawing his gaze like a magnetic force. The ambiance shifted as she strode into the room, her magnetic aura casting a spell that seemed to isolate the two of them in a world of their own. Her ruby lips curved into an angelic smile, accentuating the perfection of her oval face. Every step she took seemed choreographed, a symphony of allure as she approached, her hips swaying in a rhythm that toyed with the senses. The tantalizing slit on her leg whispered of temptation, unveiling her swarthy skin, adorned by a gorgeous thigh bracelet, the crescendo of her allure. The signature red-bottom stilettos accentuated her strides, a spell bounding allure that beckoned and mesmerized. Yet, the revelation of her unexpected liaison, as she leaned in to kiss the man at the nearby table, plunged the observing man into a whirlpool of emotions. A hint of jealousy stirred within him as he watched her date wrap his hands around her waist.

As the clock struck seven, Nikita, ready for dinner date, perched on the edge of the bed, her heart drumming in anticipation. Attempting to distract herself with a novel, the rising excitement wrestled her attention away. Unable to resist, she delved into stalking his Instagram stories, an eager prelude to his arrival from Nigeria, a thoughtful gesture for her birthday celebration. Her elation was palpable, humming happily while making finishing touches to her makeup. And then, it was time. Adorned in a black off-shoulder gown, she glimpsed herself in the mirror, the reflection of her figure and anticipation sending a surge through her veins. Palms sweating, she sought him out, their eyes meeting in a blaze of shared emotions. He was there, her shinning knight, waiting just for her, a gentle kiss marking his punctuality. But a disconcerting detail emerged, a smudge of pink lipstick on his white collar. Her inner voice screamed in disbelief, yet she held her silence, waiting for his explanation, a silent plea for reassurance.

Their evening unfolded, a lavish affair of the most opulent dishes and exquisite wine, a reflection of Ofeko's penchant for the finest things. However, the recurring pattern emerged, his attention lured away by his phone, tethered to work and leaving her yearning for a moment of connection. The evening's trajectory abruptly altered when another guest recognized Ofeko. A cordial greeting unfolded, leaving to Ofeko's abrupt departure, leaving her bewildered and abandoned at the table, her warm smile replaced by a jaw- dropping astonishment. The young Somali's man's acknowledgement seemed like a silent apology, but the weight of Ofeko's departure tugged at her, stirring the unsettling question; did she hold any significance to him at all? While her meal was en route to her room, Nikita sought solace in a beachside stroll. Frustration simmered within her, the ocean serving as a canvas for her unspoken grievances. "Motherfucker!" her outburst pierced the air, a testament to her inner turmoil. 

With an impulsive urge to submerge herself in the cold embrace of the ocean, she strode towards the lapping waves, hoping they might cleanse her turmoil. A sudden force enveloped her, whisking her onto a sturdy pair of shoulders, her startled gaze meeting the familiar face of the man from earlier. As he gingerly settled her onto a nearby stone, his concern pierced through her, and his touch ignited sensations she had not anticipated. Their eyes locked, an unspoken connection bridging the gap between them. Her confusion mingled with a surge of unexpected desire, prompting her to seize the moment. In a sudden rush of longing, she initiated a kiss, drawing away in bashful apprehension, only to find him reciprocating with fervor. The taste of his yearning, the gentleness of his lips against hers, spurred a delicate interplay that both teased and tempted. Their hungry kiss deepened, and a soft moan escaped her lips, heightening the electric tension between them. 

He lifted her, their bodies merging in an urgent entanglement, each movement sparking a storm of desire. Despite her confusion, a relentless yearning to explore this unexpected connection pulsed within her. As they reached his opulent room, a mixture of anticipation and trepidation hung in the air. He shed his white Kanzu, revealing a tall, well-built figure, but it was the pulsating promise straining against his shorts that seized her attention. The raw desire in his gaze, his anticipation tangible in the room, elicited a gulp from her constricted throat. His nakedness unveiled a powerful presence, his arousal evident and demanding, a fact that both frightening and enticed her. "Are you sure?" his calm, deep voice quivered through her, igniting an involuntary response teasing her desires, dampening her resolve. "I'm sorry!" With a sudden surge of panic, she fled the room leaving him wanting and hungry, the lingering scent of anticipation and an unexplored connection hanging in the air.

Nikita's hurried footsteps echoed in the dimly lit corridor as she fled from the passionate encounter. The taste of unexpected desire lingering on her lips, and her heart throbbed with a mixture of confusion and longing. Her black gown billowed around her, a silhouette against the soft glow of ambient lighting in the hotel hallway. As she reached the elevator, the polished metal doors slid open, revealing the mirrored interior that reflected her disheveled appearance. She fumbled with the button panel, her fingers trembling with the aftershocks of the impulsive kiss. The elevator seemed to take an eternity to arrive, each passing second amplifying the disquiet within her. Just as the doors began to close, Nikita caught a glimpse of movement down the hallway. Her breath caught in her throat as she recognized the unmistakable figure of Kome, Natalie's boyfriend. His tall, well-built frame and distinctive features left no room for doubt. Her eyes widened in disbelief as Kome, adorned in his traditional Kanzu, entered a hotel room with another woman, their laughter seeping through the partially ajar door.

A surge of conflicting emotions washed over Nikita. Her mind raced to comprehend the scene before her. Disbelief, anger, and empathy tangled within her as she grappled with the revelation. The elevator, now at her disposal, seemed a portal to escape the unraveling reality. Nikita stepped into the confined space, her mind a tempest of thoughts. The polished metal doors sealed her within, shutting out the dissonance of the corridor. The ascent felt like an eternity, the elevator's gentle hum accompanying the tumultuous whirl of emotions within her. When the doors opened on a different floor, Nikita hesitated. The haunting image of Kome and the unknown woman lingered in her mind, urging her to confront the unsettling truth. She steeled herself, determined to understand the complexity of the situation. As she ventured back into the corridor, the hushed sounds of the hotel surrounded her. Nikita approached the door that had concealed Kome's clandestine rendezvous. The laughter from within ceased as she tentatively knocked, a knot of anticipation tightening in her stomach. The door swung open, revealing Kome's surprised expression. His eyes widened momentarily, registering the unexpected presence of Nikita in the hallway. The woman beside him, still in the process of adjusting her disheveled appearance, regarded Nikita with a mix of confusion and discomfort. "Nikita?" Kome's voice wavered with a hint of guilt. The air hung heavy with unspoken truths as Nikita met Kome's gaze, her eyes reflecting the turmoil of emotions within. The woman in the room observed the silent exchange, sensing the weight of a revelation unfolding.

"Nikita," Kome began, his voice a strained attempt at normalcy, "this isn't what it looks like."

Nikita, however, held her composure. "Isn't it? Because it looks like you're here with someone other than Natalie."

The woman beside Kome shifted, an uneasy glance exchanged between her and Kome. The weight of guilt hung in the air, and Nikita felt a surge of anger mingling with the hurt. She needed answers, and she needed them now.

"Who is she, Kome?" Nikita's voice was firm, a demand for truth that cut through the tension.

Kome hesitated, his eyes flickering with a mix of regret and resignation. "Her name is Kadzo. We... we met during a business trip, and things just..."

Nikita's expression hardened. "Things just what? Spiraled out of control? You couldn't find a better time to let me know?"

Kadzo, sensing the gravity of the situation, took a step back, her eyes darting between Nikita and Kome. The weight of guilt settled on Kome's shoulders as he struggled to find the right words.

"Nikita, please. This isn't how I wanted you to find out."

The woman, Kadzo, grabbed her purse on the sofa, realizing she was an interloper.

"I'll... I think I should leave," she stammered, brushing past Nikita who stood firmly on the threshold almost blocking the whole path. Without waiting for a response, she turned away, her steps echoing down the corridor.

The echoes of the corridor dissolved into the soft hum of the ocean as Nikita retraced her steps, leaving the haunting confrontation behind. The weight of it clung to her like a heavy garment, each step a struggle against the undertow of emotions threatening to pull her under. As she reached her hotel room, the door opened to the familiar sanctuary, a contrast to the tumult outside. The gentle scent of lavender lingered in the air, a soothing reminder of the haven she had created. The novel, "She Marinates," lay on the curved wooden table, its pages whispering tales of resilience and self-discovery. The bay window framed the Indian Ocean, a serene tableau that contrasted with the tempest within. She closed her eyes, grounding herself in the rhythmic melody of the waves.

Nikita wrestled with the conflict within her, torn between the desire to be honest with her best friend Natalie and the need to shield her from potential heartache. The weight of unspoken words lingered as she moved through her kitchen, the anticipation of the upcoming book novel group adding a layer of distraction. The savory aroma of chocolate muffins wafted through the air as the oven timer beeped. Nikita hurried to the kitchen, donning oven mitts to retrieve the hot, freshly baked chocolate muffins. The rich scent enveloped her, and she couldn't resist the temptation to grab one immediately. The first bite sent a delightful symphony of flavors dancing on her taste buds, almost convincing her that a career in baking might be worth exploring. With a satisfied smile, she arranged six elegant glasses on the dining table, each one poised for the velvety red wine she poured with a graceful hand. The atmosphere in her cozy home was transforming into a haven of warmth and indulgence. Siri, always at her beck and call, was instructed to play a playlist of her favorite dancehall tunes, the lively beats setting the perfect mood for the evening. As she surveyed the inviting setup, Nikita couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The book novel group was not just a gathering for literary discussions; it was a sanctuary for friendship and shared passions. Despite the undercurrents of unsaid truths, Nikita was determined to make the evening memorable for everyone, including Natalie. The taste of the chocolate muffin lingered on her lips as she anticipated the arrival of her friends, the pages of their novels ready to unfold amidst the comfort of good company and the clinking of wine glasses.

Natalie's wardrobe room mirrored the chaos within her mind as she paced uneasily amidst the disarray. Murmuring intense insults under her breath, she cursed the very day she had crossed paths with Kome. Clothes, shoes, and handbags were strewn haphazardly across the floor, a tangible reflection of the emotional turbulence that gripped her. Frustration boiled within her, finding an outlet in a scream that echoed through the room. Determined to retrieve the brown envelope containing the cash intended for her mother, Natalie embarked on a frantic search. The very thought that Kome might have stolen her hard-earned money fueled her anger. Amidst the clutter, she finally located the elusive envelope. Clutching it tightly in her hands, she stormed into the living room, the keys jingling as she snatched them from the key bowl. The decision was made, fueled by a mix of desperation and righteous anger. Natalie couldn't allow Kome to get away with what seemed to be a betrayal. With a determined stride, she left her apartment, locking the door behind her. The sunlight painted the city in warm hues as she navigated the familiar route to Kome's place. The city streets buzzed with afternoon activity, and Natalie's focused determination cut through the daytime hustle. As Natalie's car moved through the city, her mind buzzed with a flurry of emotions. The confrontation ahead was uncertain, but she was propelled forward by a relentless desire for answers and justice. The bright afternoon bore witness to her resolve, and with each passing moment, the tension within her intensified.

Arriving at Kome's place, Natalie parked her car with a determination that matched the fiery resolve in her eyes. The facade of Kome's residence, once a familiar and seemingly innocent abode, now harbored the shadows of suspicion and betrayal. She approached the door, her knuckles rapping against it with a resounding echo. The seconds that followed felt like an eternity, the air charged with anticipation. As the door swung open, Kome's expression shifted from casual surprise to unease, registering the intensity in Natalie's gaze. Without wasting a moment, Natalie confronted Kome about the missing money, her voice cutting through the air with a precision that mirrored her frustration. Kome, caught off guard, stammered and attempted feeble explanations. But Natalie was having none of it; her patience had worn thin.

As Natalie confronted Kome at his doorstep, a woman's voice echoed from within, inquiring about the unexpected interruption. Ignoring the question, Natalie pushed her way into the apartment, her eyes widening at the sight that greeted her. Seated on the sofa, wearing only a t-shirt, was Kome's personal assistant—the unexpected third party in this tumultuous revelation. The room seemed to freeze as the woman, previously hidden in the shadows of Kome's clandestine affairs, now sat exposed to Natalie's scrutiny. The air became charged with tension, and the weight of betrayal hung palpably in the room. Natalie's initial shock transformed into a steely resolve as she faced the stark reality of Kome's infidelity. The confrontation took an unexpected turn, unveiling not only the theft of her money but also the depths of the deception that had infiltrated her relationship.

Amidst the tension, Natalie's anger flared, fueled by the betrayal she had just uncovered. "How could you?" she seethed, her voice a mix of hurt and indignation. Kome, caught off guard, stammered for words, attempting to explain the inexplicable. The personal assistant, still clad in Kome's t-shirt, watched the scene unfold with a mixture of guilt and apprehension. As emotions reached a boiling point, Natalie's initial shock gave way to a torrent of emotions; pain, anger, and a profound sense of loss. The apartment, once a symbol of shared dreams and aspirations, now stood as a stark reminder of shattered trust and broken promises.

Devastated and betrayed, Natalie turned away from the wreckage of her relationship, tears streaming down her face. The weight of the betrayal and the collapse of her once-happy life pressed on her shoulders, making every step an agonizing journey into the unknown. She found solace in the sanctuary of her car, a private space where she could let the tears flow freely. The engine hummed to life, and as she navigated the familiar streets, her vision blurred by tears, she confronted the reality of a future altered by deception. The drive was both a physical and emotional distance from the ruins of her past. The city lights flickered outside the car window, mirroring the tumultuous thoughts that raced through her mind. Natalie's heartache resonated with each passing streetlamp.

Meanwhile, at Nikita's place, the novel group's gathering faced an unexpected obstacle as the heavy rain played spoilsport. Calls and messages flooded in from members expressing regret and apologies for their absence. It seemed the weather had conspired against their literary camaraderie. As Nikita contemplated the disappointment of a canceled gathering, a knock echoed through the house. Surprised, she hurried to the door, wondering who could be braving the downpour. Opening the door, she was met with the sight of a drenched man, raindrops clinging to his disheveled hair and clothes. 

 "I'm sorry for being late. The rain caught me off guard," he apologized, a sheepish smile playing on his lips.

With a warm smile, Nikita welcomed the drenched newcomer inside, realizing he might need something dry to wear. She led him to Ofeko's wardrobe and offered him a set of clothes, ensuring he could make himself comfortable. As they settled in the cozy living room, Nikita explained the situation, expressing regret that the rest of the novel group couldn't make it due to the unexpected downpour. Undeterred, she decided to make the best of the situation and offered their new guest a cup of hot coffee along with the freshly baked chocolate muffins she had prepared earlier. The aroma of coffee and the sweet scent of muffins filled the room, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie despite the rainy setback.

As the rain continued its relentless dance against the windows, Nikita and Collins engaged in a lively chat, covering a spectrum of topics from literature to personal anecdotes. The atmosphere transformed as the evening unfolded, the sound of raindrops providing a soothing background melody. As the clock neared midnight, Nikita suggested it was time to retire for the night. Knowing that Collins might be tired from the unexpected events of the evening, she graciously offered him the comfort of a guest room. "Collins, you can use the guest room down the hall. I hope you find everything you need. If there's anything else, feel free to ask," Nikita said with a warm smile. Grateful for the hospitality, Collins thanked her and headed to the guest room. Nikita, too, retreated to her own room, the sound of rain now a gentle lullaby that accompanied her thoughts as she drifted into a peaceful sleep. Collins smiled with anticipation as he made his way to the guest room, a hopeful thought lingering in his mind, that he might have just found the one.